Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 November 2018
74. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Skills when he plans to complete the review of history as a compulsory subject for the junior certificate; his views on the decision to make history non-compulsory; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49459/18]
View answerSince my arrival in the Department I have been considering the issue of History in the curriculum. I have spoken publicly of how vital it is that our young people can learn from the past so that they can plan for the future. I think it is very important that our education system should provide the opportunity to learn about, and learn from, key times and events in our history, events that we particularly recall in this decade of centenaries. These include the end of the First World War, the delicate path we walk to mark the foundation of the State, and the role of women in society. The study of our history can also afford the opportunity to consider and learn from the story of Irish migration, of the journey from conflict to peace on this island, and to learn about the rich history of our Irish language and its place in our culture and our heritage.
It is against this backdrop, of the importance of learning from our past, that I have asked the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) to review the optional nature of history under the new Framework for Junior Cycle. History was one of the new subject specifications introduced to schools just last September.
As part of their review I have also asked the NCCA to identify how we can best promote the study of history in our schools.
I met with officials of the NCCA yesterday and had an initial discussion on this matter. I expect to receive a report from the Council by the end of the first quarter of next year.
